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State Sen. Tommie Williams and three other General Assembly members Tuesday urged their colleagues to pass legislation this year that would require private health insurance companies in Georgia to cover treatment for autism. Williams’ niece’s daughter, Ava Bullard, is the inspiration for the proposed legislation, Ava’s Law. The issue has been raised at the Legislature for the past five years, Williams said.

Gov. Nathan Deal signed into law Monday a bill requiring drug tests for applicants to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, also known as welfare. Opponents plan to file a lawsuit blocking the measure soon after it goes into effect on July 1.

A state lawmaker who drafted a bill requiring drug tests for welfare applicants says Gov. Nathan Deal will sign it into law Monday. Sen. John Albers, a Roswell Republican, says the bill would save taxpayer money and deter fraud. But opponents say it largely targets low-income women, and some plan to file a lawsuit to stop the measure.

Georgia lawmakers are revising a bill that opponents say is almost certain to land in federal court. It would require welfare recipients to take a drug test before receiving benefits. Its sponsor says the measure would save taxpayers money but others say it’s unconstitutional.

There was a senate hearing Monday on giving drug tests to Georgians on welfare. Senator John Albers of North Fulton County says requiring welfare recipients to pass a drug test would keep struggling parents away from illegal drug.

Two Georgia lawmakers are planning to introduce legislation that would require people to pass a drug test to receive welfare. State Rep. Jason Spencer, R-Woodbine, and state Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said they hope lawmakers consider the plan next year.